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variables, including high school GPA, to develop a more robust picture of a student's ... a new iPhone App for students
The Community College Research Center at Columbia University released two studies this week focusing on the use of placement tests in relation to other variables to measure a student’s college and career readiness. We welcome and acknowledge the value of research aimed at helping educators understand, evaluate and address America’s remediation crisis. The College Board agrees that the most successful placement models are those that take a comprehensive approach. This means utilizing the extensive range of tools available within ACCUPLACER to assess multiple variables, including high school GPA, to develop a more robust picture of a student’s preparation for college and careers. The way ACCUPLACER is used varies by institution, and we have found that many institutions underutilize the full breadth of technologies and services offered. ACCUPLACER outcomes are dependent on the different uses and interpretations of the assessment by states and institutions. In other words, how, when and why ACCUPLACER is used will impact the outcomes achieved. The ACCUPLACER program has listened to concerns from educators and has taken actions to address the growing challenges with remediation in the United States. The New Vision for ACCUPLACER, first offered in June 2011, includes a series of new tools, such as: the ability for colleges to input GPA and other variables into ACCUPLACER and allow for placement using test scores as one of multiple factors; a multiple weight measuring tool that allows institutions to apply values on a student’s background and experience; new diagnostic assessments providing detailed analysis of a student’s strengths and weaknesses across the content spectrum; a customized online intervention tool, offered in collaboration with Pearson’s MyFoundationsLab, to remediate targeted weaknesses; new customized and modularized placement tests providing both diagnostic and placement scores aligned to Common Core and state standards; a new iPhone App for students to refresh and prepare for ACCUPLACER. The New Vision is showing promise based on preliminary data from institutional ACCUPLACER pilot programs across the country. The College Board and the ACCUPLACER program are deeply concerned about the impact remediation is having on students and institutions. We recognize the challenges and are providing solutions to achieve our nation’s goal to help more students succeed in college and in the career of their choice. For more information, comments or questions please contact: [email protected]. www.collegeboard.org/accuplacer.